Tybee Island Hosts Meetings on New Short-Term Vacation Rental Ordinance

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) – The city of Tybee Island is set to hold meetings regarding the new short-term vacation rental (STVR) ordinance that has been a topic of significant debate in the community. These meetings aim to ensure that all rental owners understand and comply with the updated regulations.

According to Tybee Island’s city manager, Bret Bell, these sessions are not designed for arguments but rather for clarification of the new application process. «We’re not looking to debate the ordinance over the next few days. It’s simply describing a new application process that’s hopefully going to benefit everyone involved and provide protection for everyone really,” Bell stated.

The ordinance introduces changes for 2025 that will require property owners to start anew when renewing their STVR permits. Current permit holders, who satisfy all ordinance requirements such as proving their property has been rented for at least 60 days in the previous year, are still eligible to renew their permits.

Tybee Island’s Mayor, Brian West, highlighted that the recent ordinances are aimed at reducing the number of STVR permits in residential areas. «People who are coming to apply to renew their permits in January may find that it’s more difficult to renew their permit because the ordinances designed to reduce the number of rentals in all the neighborhoods,» said Mayor West.

The new application process is scheduled to commence on January 1st, 2025, with a deadline at the end of March for submissions. The STVR Stakeholder Application Process Meeting will be conducted on Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., and on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the council chambers of the Public Safety Building on Van Horn Street.

Additionally, a separate meeting will be organized for property management companies to discuss the new rental process. Agencies that did not receive meeting information are advised to contact the city.

The discussions and updates on Tybee Island’s vacation rental regulations come as the community navigates balancing the interests of property owners, residents, and tourists alike.